Door Handle Replacement
Door handles may seem like a small detail, but if you dislike the way they look or are finding them difficult to use and use, you should consider replacing them. With some patience, you can put in the new handle in no time.
Modern door handles are typically equipped with cover plates that hide the screws for a more attractive appearance. If your new handle does not have them already connected, you'll have to attach them separately.
Removal of the Old Handle
Door handles are not only important for their aesthetic value to your home, but they're also crucial for safety as they let you lock and unlock your door. However, over time the door handle could lose its grip, become loose or start to look old and worn out. This is a sign that it's probably time for a replacement.
If your door handle is becoming difficult to use, it may be time to replace it. This is an issue because it means that you are unable to not lock or unlock your door, which could be an security risk to you and your family.
It is also an excellent idea to replace your door handle when it's damaged or broken. A damaged or broken door handle can be very dangerous, especially in the event that your children or senior family members struggle to open it and could get trapped within. Luckily, it's quite simple to fix a damaged door handle by simply replacing the handle that was broken.
Most modern door handles are a standard size and therefore are suitable for any door. If you're not certain that the new door handle you are buying will work, take off the old one and measure its housing holes. This will allow you to purchase the correct size door handle.
It is easiest to take off the old door handle by removing it from the door. Usually, a screwdriver is used. Some door handles have the cover plate, which conceals the screws used to mount them. You'll need to remove it to get to the screws. After removing the old handle, make a note of the way the spindle is connected. This will aid in aligning the new handle.
You can also remove the door handle by unscrewing the latch mechanism. You can use a screwdriver for removing the door handle. However, you will need to locate the small latch that is located on the edge cut piece. After window handles have removed the latch, you can take the handle off the strike plate and then remove the latch from the door edge.
Take off the Strike Plate
When you replace your handle, you'll also want to replace the latch plate that holds the hole that the door's latch hooks into when it closes. The new handles will come with two latch plates that are circular and rectangular plate (see the above diagram which illustrates the components of a door handle). If you have a rectangular latch plate, you can replace it with an oval one. This will allow the latch to hook onto the strike plate, making the handle easier to use.
The first step is to loosen the screw that is holding the old latch plate in place. The screws are usually quite tight and require a bit of force to loosen them. If possible, it may be helpful to have another person assist with this part.
The latch plate should be removed from the door once the screws have been removed. If the latch plate is stuck or refuses to move, use a small hammer to scrape the edges. This will sometimes free the plate up.
Now you can prepare the new strike plate for installation. Utilizing the wood screws that came with your new handles, screw the latch plate onto the inside of the doorjamb. Don't over tighten your screws as this can damage the strike plate.
If you're not sure whether the latch plate is in its proper position, shut and open the door to determine whether it latches and closes properly. If it does not, you will need to adjust the strikeplate upwards or down or forward or back until the door locks properly.
If the door continues to move or jiggles, you might have to expand your latch hole on the strike plate. This is more prevalent with older doors, but could also be caused by wear and tear hinge mortises that are not deep enough or not the right size for the latch, or due to damaged or broken strike plate that is damaged or broken. If this is the case, follow the same procedure to adjust the strike plate, but using a metal file instead of an hammer and chisel.
Removing the Latch
The latch is the metal piece that is angled that slides in and out of the hole in the inner edge of your door. The latch is moved forward when you turn the handle. It also hooks in a hole on the door's frame so that the door remains closed. If your door wiggles when you close it, changing the latch may be the only thing needed to correct the issue.
The screws that support the door latch are difficult to see however, you can use a screwdriver to make a small hole on the trim plate and then pry the latch off. After taking off the trim plate you should be able to take off the latch as well as the bolts that hold it and the spindle.
If the latch doesn't easily release, try using the clip of a paper or tool to free it from the handle mechanism. Place the item in the latch's slot that is recessed and gently turn or jiggle it until you feel the handle and latch start to split. You may have to repeat this process several times before you can pull the latch out.
You should be able to slide the new latch into its slot without any issues once you have removed the old one. Make sure that the latch is positioned correctly in the slot and is aligned with the screw chambers, and then use the new screws to attach it to the strike plate and door frame.
Measure the existing backset (the distance between the center of the large hole in the door's front and the edge) before installing the new handle. Verify that the size of the latch of the new handle is in line with the measurement.
You'll require a new cylinder for your lock if replacing the latch and handle or if your current one is damaged. If you're not replacing the locks the new latch will fit into the existing recess and be compatible with the keys you have currently. Choose a latch that has rectangular cover plates to match your existing handles.
Then remove the Cover Plate
You can replace your door handles with a contemporary rose and lever designs to enhance the appearance of your home. You can buy complete sets that come with matching escutcheons as well as privacy adaptor kits.
To replace an internal door handle remove the cover plate (or rose) that protects the screws and the inner mechanism. Look for an opening tab on the plate and make use of a flathead screwdriver to lift it off the knob. It could have a slot on one edge or be held by a pin.
After the cover plate is removed take off the screw that holds the interior handle in place, and then set it aside. It is also necessary to remove the screws that hold the latch and inner plates to the door, which you can accomplish by loosening them with the help of a Philips screwdriver. Then, take the inner plates and latch plate from the door and set them aside.
Most doors have gaps between the door jamb and the inner edge of the frame, which allows for a handle, however not all do. If yours does not allow for a handle, you'll have to make a hole in the door. The process for doing this is the same as for opening a door with the lock, however you'll need to take extra care to avoid damaging the frame or door.
After drilling the holes, you'll need to install new door knob screws. Buy the same size as the old screws to ensure that you don't get a handle that is too loose or tight. You'll also need to install a new latch plate and strike rod, which aren't included with most door handle sets.
If you're looking for a high-quality replacement set of interior door handles, try the Amazon's Choice FAERSI two-piece chrome-finished handle set. It's a factory fit and has received hundreds of five-star reviews from satisfied customers. It's a great option to replace worn or damaged door hardware on your Chevy.